Bert Dreossi: 20 Year Anniversary!

Bert Dreossi: 20 Year Anniversary!

Congratulations on Twenty Years!

Congratulations, Bert Dreossi, for twenty years of dedication at H.K. Truck Center! We know you don’t like to brag, so we’ve decided to do it for you! Here’s just a few fun facts about Bert’s journey with H.K. Truck Center!

It’s hard to believe that the Sales Account Manager of H.K. Truck Center used to clean boats for a living, but before his work at H.K., that’s exactly what Bert Dreossi did. Hank Knabe, President of H.K. Truck Center, first met Bert through his work at D&R Boats. Hank recognized his constant professionalism. Though he was only in his early twenties, he showed great promise, and when he finished with D&R Boats, he called Hank to let him know he had given his two weeks notice and would no longer be helping Hank on their behalf.

“He told me he was going to work at a large local car dealership. I said, ‘No you’re not’.” recalls Hank with a laugh. “I said, ‘You’re going to come work for me. I need you to be a big fish in a small pond, not a small fish in a big pond’.”

Bert Dreossi started his journey with H.K. Truck Center in April of 1994 as a service employee, or ‘counter guy’. Hank let Bert and a previous H.K. employee, Brian, work together for about sixty days while getting a feel for how he handled the job. To no one’s surprise, the company happily handed Bert all the responsibility of that position. He took control of all the service advising, the hand written billing and even convinced the company to buy their first computer. Perhaps one of his biggest contributions, however, lay in the massive project of constructing the H.K. Truck Center building to what it is today, including permits, contractors and dealing with the township in addition to all his own responsibilities. Though he had only four or five years experience with the company, he later became involved in general management.

“He took care of billing, payroll, human resources, everything. He would be here before I got here in the morning and stay here hours after I left. Every night. All the time.” Says co-worker Vanessa Ciervo, Finance & Accounting Manager.

As the company expanded, more people came to take on the growing company and it’s equally growing responsibilities. Small projects became large ones, but Bert’s dedication and his determination to do a good job continued despite personal hardships. Through some life changing ups and downs, he always went the extra mile to stay committed to his work. Bert worked hard to remain within the company and continue to do excellent work for H.K. Truck Center. “That type of dedication you don’t see everyday.” says Hank. He was moved from General Manager into Sales and has truly soared in the branch. Though Sales had not been Bert’s initial plan, he continued to exceed expectations and now is more successful than ever. He is known for being a exemplary worker, and Hank considers him a ‘one in a million-type person’. He works hard and is enjoying the benefits that come with the dedication and commitment he has demonstrated since his start with the company.

“He’s made a wonderful difference here, and the customers love him. He has a way about him and a way of dealing with people. Even as someone who previously worked for him when he was the general manager, he just has a way as an employee of making you feel like he cares and he will do everything for you.” said Vanessa.

Hank agreed, adding, “He wants to win the race, but he doesn’t want the trophy. We hope it’s another twenty years. Whatever he wants to do, we are happy to have him. “

John K. Haines, CPWM, CRP

April 21, 2014 9:29 am

Congratulations Bert! You are a nice man with a kind, caring heart. The Borough of Union Beach and myself will always remember the kindness and that of your wife Tara in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.

You should know that people are saying great things about you because you are a champion in your field of work and in Life.

Vanessa Ciervo

April 21, 2014 10:54 am

It’s been an honor to work for and with you throughout the years! You are the best and I wouldn’t be where I am today without you teaching me everything I know. Thanks just isn’t enough and I am so excited we are getting the chance cerebrate you today. Congrats!

Sam Sealy

Cristian Benitez

April 21, 2014 11:14 am

Congratulations Mr. Bert!!! 20 years whoa! There are many great things that could be said about you and the great person you are. You have taught me and continue to teach me many things and for that I thank you. I not only see you as my boss but a friend as well, I know I could count on you as you know you could count on me. You are a great person and know you will continue to do Great things.